Hurricane Helene's devastating route has caused havoc in six states. The death toll rose to 128 on Monday, days after the Category 4 hurricane slammed landfall in Florida. Almost 2 million people remain without electricity.
Buncombe County, North Carolina, experienced the most deaths, with 40. Asheville, a scenic mountain city, is currently underwater. Mayor Esther Manheimer characterized the sight as "post-apocalyptic," with wrecked buildings, overturned vehicles, and twisted electrical wires.
Rescue operations face major hurdles. Many roads and bridges are either blocked or completely damaged. Clean water, food, and other basics are scarce. The communication system is in ruins, leaving numerous families wondering what happened to their loved ones.
The full scope of Helene's damage is still emerging. Hundreds remain missing. As the floodwaters recede, other bodies are uncovered. Officials anticipate the death toll to grow much more.
Despite the disruption, communities are uniting. Strangers are assisting neighbors with goods and resources. However, the path to recovery will be lengthy and difficult.
Governor Roy Cooper asked people to avoid impacted regions so emergency personnel could reach those in need. The National Guard has been mobilized to help with the recovery work. President Joe Biden plans to visit the hardest-hit communities later this week. Survivors are currently focused on their immediate needs as they prepare for the difficult rebuilding process.
